The result justified their anticipations, for Gaston was even more crushed and downcast than Andre had imagined, and it was in an agony of suspense that he awaited the return of the young painter.
As soon as he saw him descending the steps he sprang forward to greet him.
"Well," said he, in a tone of eager inquiry.
"Your father," returned Andre, "is terribly angry with you, but I hope to be able to induce him to do something for you." "Will he set Zora at liberty ?" "Perhaps he will; but first he must have something more from you than promises--he must have stable guarantees." At these words Gaston's face fell.

"Guarantees," answered he sulkily.
"Is not my word of honor enough?
What sort of guarantees does he require ?" "That I cannot tell you, and you must find out for yourself; but I will do all I can for you." Gaston gazed upon Andre in surprise.
"Do you mean to tell me," asked he, "that you can do pretty well what you like with the governor ?" "Not exactly; but surely you can see that I have a good deal of influence over him.

If you want a proof of this, see, here is the money to take up these bills you told me of." "What, Verminet's ?" "I suppose so.

I am speaking of those to which you were mad enough to forge another man's name." Foolish as the boy was, this act of his had caused him many a sleepless night, and he had reflected very often how he could possibly escape from the consequence of his act of rashness.
"Give me the money," cried he.
Andre shook his head, however.

"Forgive me," said he, "but this money does not quit my hand until the bills are handed over to me.